Schecter Guitar Research has a decades-long history going back to 1976 when David Schecter opened his shop in Van Nuys, California. Originally, Schecter manufactured parts for other guitars, but by 1979 the company was building its own instruments from scratch. That kicked off a tradition that continues to this day with a wide variety of guitars in their catalog and Schecter has a lot to offer in extended-range electric guitars, with a significant number of models available in 7 and 8-string versions. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin with Schecter's extended-range guitars. You might start your search with the Hellraiser models, which have become a mainstay of rock and metal since they were first introduced in 2006. The C-7 FR and C-8 FR are loaded with EMG 707-TW and EMG-808 active humbuckers, respectively, as well as genuine Floyd Rose tremolo bridges. There are also the Hellraiser Hybrids, which blend together features from the standard Hellraiser and Schecter's SLS models, including a redesigned maple top paired with the compound-radius ultra-slim neck borrowed from the SLS. Both extended-range Hellraiser Hybrids feature EMG 57/66 active humbucking pickups.

Another series of guitars you might like to take for a spin are the Banshees, which feature Seymour Duncan's Nazgul and Sentient humbuckers. Or, if you're a leftie, try the left-handed Blackjack A-7, which features the same pickups. The Banshees are also available with active EMG 81/85s if that's more your style, and the right-handed Blackjack ATX series come with Active Blackouts from Seymour Duncan. With these two guitar models, you're covered whether you prefer active or passive pickups - no problem.

The Damien Elite series is perfect if you're looking for a guitar that's more high-class and low-key. Also employing the EMG 81/85 pickups, this guitar is a Schecter favorite. Another classic model is the 7 or 8-string Demon, which lives up to its name with a look that's cool yet mean, and a sound that could only come from Seymour Duncan-designed HB-105 pickups.

Of course, few guitar lineups would be complete without a few signature models, and Schecter brings some serious shredders to the stage. One of the longest-standing relationships that Schecter has is with Nevermore guitarist Jeff Loomis, whose signature JLV-7 is available with or without a Floyd Rose bridge, so you can take it as you like it. Keith Merrow of Conquering Dystopia also has a Schecter signature, a 7-string KM-7. Rounding out the custom roster is Chris Howorth of In This Moment, with an eye-catching signature V-7 that incorporates Schecter's "Ultra-Access" neck for fast, nimble play and easy reach to every fret.

Hellraiser, Hellraiser Hybrid, Banshee, Blackjack, Damien or Demon: which do you like most? Maybe you've got your eye on one of the signature models - it's all good. Any Schecter Guitar Research extended-range electric guitar is a great choice. Whichever of these 7 or 8-strings you take home, you'll have an instrument to be proud of.